Rare Glen Iris sale tops weekend auction results

News.com.au

18 hours ago

A grand Edwardian time capsule in Glen Iris has topped Melbourne's auction results for the week, selling for $3.45m in a tightly contested showdown.
The home at 4 Dorrington Ave attracted a flurry of interest thanks to its unspoilt character, with competition ultimately pushing it above its revised $2.9m-$3.1m price hopes.
Marshall White Stonnington's Mark Harris said the result reflected just how rare homes of this calibre were in the tightly held Dorrington Estate.
'We haven't seen an unrenovated period property like this come up in the area for decades,' Mr Harris said.
'The block, the mature trees, the craftsmanship, it had that sense of soul buyers are desperate for, and the opportunity to renovate and extend at the rear made it irresistible.'
The property hadn't changed hands since 1973, marking the end of a 51-year chapter for its long-time custodians.
Mr Harris said buyers were drawn to its authenticity, with original marble fireplaces, stained-glass windows, and decorative ceilings all intact, but crucially, not over-renovated.
'It had been updated in parts, like the kitchen and bathroom, but the heritage bones remained untouched,' he said.
'That gave buyers a clear vision of what it could become.'
The eventual buyers plan to preserve the home's grand facade and renovate sensitively, something Mr Harris said meant the world to the outgoing owners.
'It was emotional, no doubt. But there was a deep sense of peace knowing the next family wanted to honour the home's story, not erase it.'
The Glen Iris sale comes as demand for blue-chip period homes on large blocks continues to outstrip supply, with prestige buyers quick to act on listings with location, land and legacy.
'The prestige market is still strong, especially for homes with land, charm and potential,' Mr Harris said.
'And if the Reserve Bank moves on rate cuts, we'll likely see even more activity at this level.'